HC Deb 04 February 1952 vol 495 c631
36. Mr. Anthony Hurd

asked the Minister of Food what arrangements have been made for co-operation between this country and Australia to ensure that essential finance and equipment is available to carry forward the development of beef production in the Northern Territory and Queensland, as proposed in the 15-year meat agreement between our two countries.

Major Lloyd George

Any finance required for development under this agreement will be found by Australia. As regards equipment which might be required from the U.K., the agreement provides that we shall take all practicable steps to facilitate supply.

Mr. Hurd

I could not hear my right hon. and gallant Friend's reply very clearly, but do I understand that the Government propose to give priorities in the matter of essential supplies of equipment for Australia so that we may get these additional supplies of meat?

Major Lloyd George

Most of the materials referred to in the Question are purchased by private firms in Australia and exported by private firms here, but we shall do anything we can to help.

Mr. Bernard Braine

Can my right hon. and gallant Friend give the House an assurance that everything possible is being done to encourage alternative sources of supply in the Commonwealth, so that this country is not periodically held to ransom?

Major Lloyd George

Everything possible is being done. We already have one good agreement with the Commonwealth, and I hope there will be others.

Forward to